The Deering Estate has announced the launch of Blue Star Museums.
The program is a collaboration among the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, the Department of Defense, and more than 2,000 museums across America to offer free admission to the nation’s active duty military personnel including National Guard and Reserve and their families now through Labor Day, Sept. 5.
Leadership support for Blue Star Families programming and promotional materials has been provided by MetLife Foundation. The program also provides families an opportunity to enjoy the nation’s cultural heritage and learn more about their new communities after a military move.
For the complete list of participating museums, please visit the Blue Star Museums website at arts.gov/bluestarmuseums.
“As a participant in Blue Star Museums, the Deering Estate provides an opportunity for military families like my own to engage our communities, learn about the natural resources around us, and enjoy this historical site that serves as a center for education, culture and recreation,” said Joseph Wimbley, Sergeant, United States Marine Corps, who also is Chief of Security at the Deering Estate.
This year the Deering Estate celebrates 100 years since Charles Deering purchased and restored the Richmond Inn and turned it into his Winter Residence. Visitors of all ages can experience a Historic House Tour at the Deering Estate and learn about the Town of Cutler, Perrine Land Grant, Richmond Family, Balloon Frame and Mediterranean Revival Architecture, and the Deering Family.
Tours are offered daily at 10:30 a.m., 12:30 and 3 p.m. In addition to the Blue Star Museums program, active duty military personnel and veterans receive a $2 discount off general admission to the Deering Estate on Tuesdays throughout the year.
The 450-plus-acre Deering Estate is an environmental, archaeological and historical preserve. From canoe tours to bird walks and guided nature hikes, the Deering Estate has diverse activities for the whole family to enjoy. The estate is part of the Miami-Dade County Parks, Recreation and Open Space Department, which manages the estate on behalf of the State of Florida.
